Letter: Help keep music in our public schools

Sunday

Mar 30, 2014 at 8:00 AM

This past Wednesday, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois hosted a benefit for BandWagon 2, an endowment for middle school music programs in District 205. The event was held at the University Club, which graciously donated their space. Five extraordinary students from Eisenhower Middle School provided the music.

For me, listening to the young musicians crystallized BandWagon 2’s purpose. Exceptional arts programs are not a supplement to high-quality education; they are its essence.

That’s why I’m so pleased to announce that the BandWagon 2 event raised more than $2,500 from local music enthusiasts. Because these funds will go toward an endowment, they will continue to support middle school music programs in our community for generations to come.

BandWagon 2 is a partnership between Rockford Public Schools and the Community Foundation. Both institutions have committed $100,000 to BandWagon 2. It is our shared goal to raise an additional $100,000 from the community. So far, generous donors have given more than $35,000 to the endowment. It’s a great start, but we still have work to do. To learn more about BandWagon 2 or to donate online, please visit BandWagon2.com and keep the music in our public schools. We need your support.